G’da optimistic that Joseph can restore former glory

The period from 2008 to 2011 is one that Grenada National Team fans will always remember.

Shalrie Joseph (blue suit, left) the former MLS star signed a 2 year deal on March 16, 2018 with the GFA and will operate as head coach for the senior men’s team. (Photo CFU)

In that span, the Spice Boys qualified for two CONCACAF Gold Cups (2009, 2011) and also produced strong performances at the Caribbean Cup, finishing as runners-up in 2008 and then fourth in 2010.

One of the driving forces behind that team was Shalrie Joseph, a midfielder who starred for many seasons in MLS and is now at the helm as Head Coach of the Grenada National Team.

Now, a new generation of Grenada players are hoping to emulate the success of a man who they admired for years while growing up.

“I think that Shalrie Joseph is a good look for the Grenada National Team, seeing that he was a past national player,” said Grenada GK Jason Belfon in an exclusive interview with CONCACAF.com.

“He has great skills which he can pass on to the players. Also, I think he is a great leader and role model for the National Team,” added Belfon.

Like many players from around the region, Belfon is appreciative of the opportunity being afforded by CONCACAF with the advent of this fall’s CONCACAF Nations League.

The W Connection man believes it will help improve Grenada football for the long-term.

“Grenada will get more exposure to professional football and it will give the players more experience. Grenada needs to have more professional football playing on the island. Also have football as a main career. I think this gesture will have young men more interested in playing the sport,” said Belfon.

Belfon says that Grenada will have to be at their best to get three points from each contest.

“These are very competitive teams, therefore my teammates and I will have to put our best foot forward and work together so that we may come out victorious. Therefore, we will have to train very hard and a positive mind set,” concluded Belfon.